Nature events and notices
Green bookshop closes
Walnut Books - which has provided a sustainability haven in the centre of Cork for the past eight years - is sadly closing its doors at the end of this month. The website will also cease to mail books on permaculture, green building, organic growing and renewable energy to the four corners of the country and beyond. "It is not a decision we have taken lightly," say owners Rob and Nora Hopkins, "but a little independent retailer like ourselves is unable to compete with the big book boys out there." The closing-down sale, with 15 per cent discount on all books, runs until July 31st at 50 Cornmarket Street and website orders will be taken until August 1st (www.walnutbooks.com). Courses on alternative building will continue at The Hollies in Castletown, Co Cork. Website: www.theholliesonline.com. Tel: 023-47001.
Bringing birds to Ballymun
When artist Jochen Gerz visited Ballymun in 2002, he noticed the lack of trees and described it as a "no-fly zone for birds". In his public art project, amaptocare, he invites people to donate a tree to the regenerated Ballymun. Donors can select the type and location of their tree and their answer to the question "If this tree could speak, what would it say for me?" will be placed on a nearby plaque. Ballymun will also be going a little Hollywood-style - since donors will have their name sandblasted into the granite pavement of the new town plaza. In an attempt to prevent vandalism and to establish a feeling of ownership of the trees, the project is encouraging local children to participate. More details from Axis on 01-8832100. and amaptocare@hotmail.com
Lifestyle and mobility
Dublin may have the Luas, but what is the long-term future for our mobility? As global demand for fossil fuels begins to outstrip supply, what are the sustainable transport and lifestyle options? Tomorrow, Sustainable Ireland and Genesis Project present a day to "cultivate fresh notions of movement and mobility in our perceptions, bodies, neighbourhoods and world". Kick off is at 10 a.m. with personal movement (bring your yoga mat) and continues with screenings of a new documentary The End of Suburbia (at 12.30 p.m. and 4.30 p.m.). Other events at Cultivate in Temple Bar include a dance performance and an exhibition of transport solutions, from bicycles to electric cars and other energy-efficient vehicles. Tel: 01-6746396. Website: www.sustainable.ie
Herbal health solutions
Is lemon balm really good for hair growth? How do you make herbal poultices, tinctures and tisanes?
To learn how to grow and use herbs from a medical herbalist and a gardener, go along to Airfield Gardens next Saturday at 2.30 p.m. More details from www.airfield.ie or 01-2984301.
Come to The Herb Garden
If you'd like to grow your own herbs, the website of The Herb Garden is full of useful information and sells certified organic herb seed for medicinal or culinary use. Tel: 01-8413907 or online at www.theherbgarden.ie